Joe Atkins is Considering a U.S. Senate Run

DFL Representative Joe Atkins of Inver Grove Heights says he's thinking about running for the U.S. Senate in 2008. Atkins was first elected to the Minnesota House in 2002. He was also mayor of Inver Grove Heights from 1993 through 2002. Atkins says he's talking to state lawmakers and folks outside of the Legislature about a possible run. He is known to be a pretty good fundraiser. He was the treasurer of the House DFL Caucus in the most recent election. Atkins says he's thinking about running because he wants to put Washington DC on an "Atkins diet." Which means less war and more focus on prescription drugs and affordable health care."When asked about Al Franken's candidacy, Atkins said "I have a great deal respect for him. I think he's a funny guy."Atkins says he'll make his decision after the legislative session. Franken and Atkins are two of the DFL names being discussed as potential challengers to GOP Senator NormColeman in 2008. Democrats in Washington D.C. are targeting Coleman.